The Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has dismissed the latest rumours linking the striker Mario Balotelli with a move to Milan.

There has been constant speculation suggesting the Italian could move to San Siro during the current transfer window.

Reports from Italy tend to vary but after suggestions Milan had been priced out of a permanent deal for the 22-year-old, there are now further stories he could move on loan.

But Mancini said: "It is not true, Mario stays here. We didn't have any requests about Mario or other players."

Mancini has maintained this firm line on the possibility of Balotelli leaving the Etihad Stadium, even after a training-ground bust-up with the player earlier this month.

Milan are interested in the forward with the vice-president Adriano Galliani issuing regular statements on the possibility of a deal but the club are unwilling to meet City's reported £28m valuation. Galliani has urged City to lower the price but Mancini says he has no intention of letting his former Inter protege leave, even on loan.

When asked if Balotelli was part of his long-term plans, Mancini said: "Yes, Mario has another three years on his contract."

Mancini was speaking at a press conference to preview his side's FA fourth-round tie at Stoke. The Balotelli subject was the first to be discussed. Mancini said: "For two years, the first question is always Mario!"

The transfer window closes next week but Mancini is not anticipating much activity.

He said: "I don't know but we don't have enough players. We are 18 players now. We can't sell any players."

When asked about the possibility of players coming in, Mancini said: "I think it is difficult."